The Controversial Cauldron

Beltane/May Eve 2010

Edition 4:2 ~ Sponsored by Controverscial.com

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Beltane © Patricia J. Martin

Group Information: Inside this issue: Members: 711 Founded: Jul 17, 2002 Welcome Beltane ~ Pg ~ 02 Language: English Beltane Ritual ~ Pg ~ 04 Legacy ~ Pg ~ 05 Representing: On the Rocks ~ Pg ~ 07 Metaphysics Argentina, Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Costa Pg ~ 11 Pagan Kitchen ~ Rica, England, France, Greenland, Hawaii, Hong Pg ~ 12 Herb Garden ~ Kong, Hungary, India, Italy, Jamaica, Kuwait, Pg ~ 16 Honey Bee ~ Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Nova Pg ~ 18 Great Pyramids ~ Scotia, Panama, Peru, Philippines, , Pg ~ 20 Nature’s Glory ~ Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, St. Pg ~ 23 Rune Reading ~ Maarten in the Caribbean, Tenerife, USA and Pg ~ 24 Corner ~ Wales. Pg ~ 25 2

leaving enough room between them so that cattle and Welcome Beltane other livestock could be led through, an act that purified and protected the animals from disease during Written and compiled by George Knowles the coming year. While the cattle and other livestock were led away to their grazing, torches would also be lit and carried around their barns and stables in Beltane is one of the greater Sabbats of the Witch’s another act of purification. All across the country annual calendar, and in the northern hemisphere is household fires would be extinguished and re-lit celebrated on the 30 th (May Eve). In the afresh from the Bel-Fires. Later the ashes from the the equivalent Sabbat is fires would be scattered in the fields. . Beltane is a fertility festival, and marks the courtship of the Goddess and God in a renewal of the Once the fires had been lit on Beltane Eve, and ancient marriage of polarity. As the young God children put to bed, in the late hours before sunrise emerges into manhood, he desires the Goddess and adult activities would take place. Wedded couples they fall in love. They meet together in fields and would dance and jump over the fires to enhance their forests, and spurred on by the energies at work in fertility. Single men and women would also join in nature, they unite and the Goddess again becomes and later wander off into fields or forests to let nature pregnant of the God. take its course. Such unions were seen as good and proper, even though not sanctified by marriage (a This is the time of year when crops are planted and Christian notion). These were referred to as begin to grow, when animals produce their young, and “Greenwood marriages”, and are the origin of the when people came out of their homes after the long customs observed by modern witches and dark months of winter. The coming of with its pagans today. However, there is an old belief that fairer weather and longer daylight hours was a most May is an unlucky month in which to get married, and welcome change and cause for much celebration. that lovers should wait until the month of June for Many of the traditions associated with Beltane are their official handfasting. If a marriage did not work, believed to have originated from the Celtic peoples of or produced no children, couples could easily split and Western Europe, who in turn reinvented them from an end their union without the messy and complicated even older Roman festival called Floralia, in which procedures of a divorce (another Christian notion). Flora the Goddess of Spring was celebrated. Water also has a strong association with Beltane, but Depending on location and tradition, Beltane is known more specifically Morning Dew, which was seen as by many alternative names: Bealtinne (Caledonii or sacred and magical. Women would bathe in dew the ), Floralia, Tana’s Day (Aridian Strega), gathered before dawn on Beltane morning in the belief , Roodmas, La Baal Tinne (Faery Wicca), it would enhance her beauty throughout the year, and Walburga (Teutonic), Walpurgisnacht (German) and if she chanted an appropriate charm while doing so, Whitsun. Similar practises then spread to the British she might even entice a future husband. Another Isles and continue to be celebrated all across England, custom was to drink from a well before sunrise on Scotland, Wales, and the . Beltane Beltane morning to insure good health and good in Ireland it is known as “Bealtaine”, in Scotland fortune. This led to the tradition of “Well Dressing”, “Bealtunn”, in Wales as “Galan Mae” and in the Isle particularly in Ireland where many wells are of Man as “Shenn do Boaldyn”. considered Holy.

Beltane is one of the four great Fire Festivals that Another popular custom associated with Beltane is quarter the seasonal turning points of the year. In “Bringing in the May”, when people from the villages preparation for the festival it was customary to build went out into the fields and forests to gather seasonal two large called “Bel-fires”, named after and flowers. These would be use to decorate their homes dedicated to the Celtic Sun God “Bel” or “Belinus”. and later to dress themselves in readiness for the Traditionally the fires were built using wood from festivities. On their return home laden with flowers, nine of the sacred trees of the Druids: Birch, , they would stop at houses along the way singing songs Ash, Alder, Willow, Hawthorn, Oak, Holly and Hazel. of Spring and leaving gifts of flowers. For this they The Willow in particular was sacred, for according to would be greeted and treated with whatever food and the Celtic tree calendar (15 th April - 12 th May), the drink the house had to offer. From this came the Willow is the tree most associated with Beltane. common custom of leaving gift baskets of flowers and fruit on the doorsteps of not just friends and family, The Bel-fires were considered sacred for their healing but also old and infirm neighbours. and purifying powers, and were lit to celebrate the return of life and fruitfulness to the earth while One of the principal characters associated with the burning away the cold of winter. On the Eve of Beltane festivities is the “Queen of May”. The May Beltane, Druids would ritually light the two Bel-fires Queen is usually a young maiden selected from the 3 previous year’s “Maidens in Waiting” and crowned on the outside and maidens facing counterclockwise with a ring of fresh flowers. Many old accounts on the inside. Once the dance began, each would mention both a May Queen and King being chosen, move in the direction they faced, those on the inside and that they reigned together from sunset on the Eve ducking under the ribbons of those on the outside, of Beltane to sunset on the following day. Among then alternately stepping to the outside. As the dance their duties was to lead the Beltane procession around progressed the ribbons weaved into a pattern down the the village, start the day’s festivities and games, and pole. The itself represented a male phallus later present prizes to the victors. thrust into Mother Earth, while the ribbons as they weaved around it represented the enveloping nature of Perhaps the most recognised symbol associated with the woman’s womb. The successful weaving of the Beltane is the Maypole. The Maypole is a powerful ribbons down the pole was symbolic of the successful phallic symbol representing fertility, and symbolised mating of the Goddess and God, and a blessing on the the union of the Goddess and God. Just before following years harvest. Beltane, the men of the village would go out into the woods and cut down a tall tree. Stripped of all its Beltane then marks the height of Spring and the branches, the resulting tall pole would be erected in beginning of Summer. It should be a day full of the village square and decorated with long brightly laughter and gaiety, fun and frolicking, games and colored ribbons, leaves, flowers and wreaths. feasting. As was the way of our ancestors who thought that the wouldn’t turn During the festivities an even number of young men without human interaction, at Beltane they did all they and maidens would be selected to dance the May pole, could to mimic and encourage the Sun’s growth. each alternately holding the end of a ribbon. The Therefore, Fires, Rituals and Celebrations were an circle of dancers would start as far out from the pole important part of the old ways to insure the Sun’s light as the length of ribbon allowed, men facing clockwise would continue to support the fertility of the earth.

01st April 2010 © George Knowles George Knowles lives in the UK and is a student of history pertaining to . http://www.controverscial.com Nature’s Glory Pics from our Members

© 2010 - SilkyRose

© 2010 - Lillian Normon

© 2010 - Martin Cox

© 2010 - © Patricia J. Martin © 2010 - SilkyRose 4

Now between the worlds I stand Beltane Ritual 2010 Bless the Lady, bless the Land As above, so below The should be a riot of bright colors—altar Bright sun that all my dreams may grow. cloth, flowers, candles, all in joyous colors. Include Bless the Lord, and bless the Skies the usual adornments: goddess and god figures, corner Bless the Power that never dies! candles, , , etc. Adorn yourself also in bright colors, a bright smile, and a crown of flowers Magickal Working: and ribbons. You and your altar should look like a celebration! Fertility can be of the body, or of the mind, or of the spirit. Identify area/s of fertility for yourself for the Grounding: coming year. On a piece of paper write down your top three plans, dreams, visions for your future. Read Joy to the world! them aloud and meditate upon them. Holding the All the boys and girls. paper in your hands, chant these words. Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea! Joy to you and me!* I ask that your fertility Come to the land and come to me. Cast your Circle by scattering flower petals or new green leaves with this chant: When you are ready, fold that paper thrice, sliding it beneath your altar cloth. Later, as you put away your Joyous Beltane; joyous spring! ritual tools, put that paper under your pillow. Sleep on I feel joy in everything! it tonight, and tomorrow morning put it in a hidden place to take out and view at Beltane next year. Face each direction as you invoke the spirits. Dismissal of directions: Join me spirits of the East, bringing the dawning of a new and happy time. Let me be always mindful of the Earth and Water, Fire and Air beauty and abundance in this . I thank you for this moment rare. South and North, East and West Join me spirits of the South, bringing the warmth of Thank you. Now I feel most blest. the sun as we move toward summer. Let me be Go you now, if you will. passionate in the pleasure you bring. Your memory is with me still.

Join me spirits of the West, bringing splashing waters Dismissal of Goddess & God: of delight and celebration. Let me feel the depths of joy as I move forth. Oh, great goddess of joy I have been here in praise. Join me spirits of the North, bringing forth the Guide me along my path. glorious growth of all. Let me be nurtured by your I’ll honor you all of my days. bounty and nurturing to all. Thank you for being with me.

Invoke the Goddess and the God: In my heart you will always be.

She walks in beauty like the night Oh great god of hope She is all that is known in dark and light I have been here in praise. She comes with flowers in her hair Guide me along my path. She is our goddess bright and fair. I’ll honor you all of my days. Goddess bright, be with me here. Thank you for being with me. May I feel your presence near. In my heart you will always be.

Join me on this special day Open your Circle by walking, skipping, or dancing To celebrate the start of May. around the Circle widdershens (counter clockwise)

God, today is your time, too. holding high a wand, athame or long stem of flowers.

As I welcome spring anew. Joy to the world God so strong, be with me here. All the boys and girls May I feel your presence near. Joy to the fishes in the deep blue sea Join me on this special day Joy to you and me! * To celebrate the start of May. *Three Dog Night (c) Copyright 1970 by Lady Jane Proclamation: Music

April 2010 © Darkhairedcrone Crone is an active member of the UU (CUUP’s) and has been a member of Email Witches since 2004 5 Legacy: Handfasting Traditions

By Ardriana Cahill

In my tradition, the three flower festivals took on the following definitions. Imbolg represents new love, the introduction of young lovers. Vernal represents fertility and new life. Bealtaine then, is the formal union of the young lovers about to bring another life into the world. were believed to be a trial marriage (for a year and a day) to verify compatibility and the fertility of the bride before the marriage was made formal. Today, a handfasting can be an engagement or betrothal ceremony or a ceremony done within a wedding ceremony. And for many, the term handfasting is interchangeable with the word wedding and is used to distinguish a pagan wedding from non-pagan weddings.

So, in the spirit of the season, an ancient time of year for making “When sweet desire weds wild wedding plans, I thought I’d share some of the traditions I’ve used in the handfasting ceremonies that I’ve officiated as Priestess of my clan, as well as my own handfasting.

Two of the more common known traditions in modern pagan weddings are jumping the and binding the hands with a handfasting cord. Thresholds and threshold crossings are magickal times. To mark the threshold that divides two lives that will now become one we use a besom over which the couple steps or jumps over. This gesture is a physical representation of the transformation that is taking place.

The handfasting cord is the object that gives definition to the handfasting ceremony; to bind or fasten the hands of the couple. It is another interpretation of "tying the knot”. Our handfasting cord was woven with three colors: burgundy for love, forest green for life and ivory for light, plus gold and silver to represent the sun and moon. The cord is wound thrice around the couple’s joined hands.

Before Christianity came to Ireland, the ancient Kelts had at one time an interesting system of government that balanced the powers between both men and women. Only men could rule the land, but only women could own the land. So, if the king liked that chair upon which he sat, he’d better make wise decisions or he couldn’t even claim his horse as his own. We wanted to include a Sword and Broach ceremony in our wedding as it is very old. When simple folk stole into the night to marry each other without witness or priest, they would give each other symbolic tokens. A broach or pin that was pinned to her shoulder and that she gave to him was a symbol of her property, but it also held her dress on, so when she offers it to him and the dress falls, he sees for the first time all that she is offering him. The sword that he offers her was the only property he was permitted to own and a symbol of his nobility, loyalty and protection. We did the Sword and Broach ceremony symbolically (the dress stayed put). He knelt to offer his sword to me, I knelt to offer my broach to him. My husband, at first, opposed my seeming Sword & Broach: My Irish Wolf subservient by kneeling to him. In today’s society, a man maintains Pin “Bona na Croin” means his stature as a man, whether he kneels or not. So I claimed the same “Neither Collar Nor Crown”. The right. I am who I am in any posture and to kneel to him was not a warrior spirit that accepts no reflection of my status. It was a reflection of his. master, a gift from the groom to the bride. To a pagan it is often confusing as to what kind of oath we can take if we do not “swear to god.” There is an ancient oath…to swear on The Swept Hilt Rapier, a one’s “hope of heaven.” Tir Na nOg (Pronounced: Tear-nan-oak) is nobleman’s weapon and a gift what the ancients named heaven…The Land of Youth. A land of from the bride to the groom. beauty, magick and wonder ~ found beyond the sea, “a league out Combined into a symbol used on and a foot over a tall man’s head”. And so, we swore on our hope of our napkins. Tir Na nOg. Irish tradition mandates something braided is needed to ward off mischievous spirits and usually, we d o6 braided hair. There is an ancient belief that woven and braided patterns entangle the evil eye causing it to lose its power to blight the day or the revelers.

Sharing a “loving cup” of wine is a centuries old German wedding tradition, but in pagan philosophy the cup is the sacred symbol of the goddess and specifically a Moon goddess. Modern pagan interpretation of the chalice can be used in the handfasting as the couple taking a blessing from the goddess. In a mixed audience of pagans and non- pagans, this goddess symbolism need not even be spoken of. We disguised it in poetic language. “For thousands of years the Chalice has been symbol of renewal, regeneration, and rebirth. The sweet wine within is a sacred image of life. As this vessel of Moonlight reflects the hope of this moment, may your life be a reflection of the love you bear each other. Drink now, and may the cup of your lives be full to overflowing.”

Similarly, we chose to reverse the standard candle ceremony used in almost every American wedding. Instead of a pair of lit bridal candles lighting together a single wedding candle to represent two lives fusing into one, we began with the single lit candle that was carried into the ceremony. That lit candle represented the Sun and we lit our bridal candles from that single flame as a blessing of the god. Saying, “This flame is a symbol of creation, the glowing, living, force that gives us breath. The flame is our passion and our deepest connection to the soul. As this tiny beacon of the Sun illuminates this moment, may your love always shine brightest for each other.” Earlier, as the guests first arrived to the wedding, we had handed out thin tapers with paper wax protectors around them. After we lit our candles from the Sun candle, we handed them to two attendants who used them to light each guest’s candle who sat in the isle seats. Then those guests were instructed to light the candle next to them, and so on until every guest was holding a lit candle. We said our wedding vows to each other to all that glowing candlelight. When we were done, the priestess asked each guest to make a wish for the bride and groom for long life, good fortune, or any special intention, then to gently blow out their candles.

I took the opportunity to create two sacred talismans for my husband and I to wear, at least, through our first year of marriage. I placed a silver chalice charm in the Moonlight chalice that was filled with wine and from which we drank (being careful to not swallow it!) Placed under the Sun candle, was silver charm in the shape of a flame. Thus, we had symbols of the Sun and Moon, god and goddess blessing our marriage. I wore the chalice charm and my husband wore the flame charm. I take them out of the jewelry box each year as our anniversary gets close and we wear them again.

I chose to incorporate a grain ceremony into a handfasting where an Anglo-Celtic bride married a groom who identified largely with his Chinese heritage. The mothers of both the bride and groom each carried a basket filled with grain. Her mother carried wheat. His mother carried rice. The priest had a third, empty bowl wherein the mothers poured the grain. The bride and groom then mixed the grains together as the priest said, “As these two baskets of grain are mixed together, let the best of both families, both cultures blend to make a rich life filled with joy.”

For those of you who are planning your handfasting, I encourage you to research cultural traditions that can be incorporated into your ceremony, but do not limit your imagination to find modern nature-based, pagan expressions to bless your special day. And with that I will leave you with this blessing…

May you live in peace and joy. And may you grow old together on one pillow.

March 2010 © Ardriana Cahill Ardriana Cahill lives in Western USA and is a Hereditary Witch, den of Clan McCormick and a Kell of Brighid since 1998. She has been a member of EW since 2004. 7 On The Rocks By Patricia J. Martin

Silver & Gold

For Beltane, I chose to concentrate on two very precious metals with which we have had an ongoing love affair throughout time. And while they each compliment the other, each are entwined in our most ancient psyche as true representations of the masculine and feminine ~ Gold and Silver. It is no wonder our ancestors chose these two long-lasting, valuable and highly-prized precious metals to associate with the Lord and Lady. They are the Lord and Lady of the metallic mineral kingdom!

As I unmask and entwine these two even further within this text, for their full effect please allow their essences to permeate and meld with your own, for this is merely a glimpse into their world.

For purity, riches and divine courtship, I call upon the powers of Gold, Au, born with untarnished boldness and vitality everlasting, and who cleaves unto none other than his most beloved. ¤ And to whom he does adore for her gifts of insight, magick and mystical wisdom, I call upon the powers of Silver, Ag, born to sensuous expression and curvaceous form, through which she invokes the attention of her consort.

Yes, Gold has long been associated with the projective solar masculine and its properties connected to the attributes of the God and the life-giving Sun. Its Element is Fire, and it is connected to the astrological sign of Leo. Chemically, Gold is a Native Element - meaning it is one of the 118 found in the Periodic Table of Elements where its symbol is "Au", and one of only a very few solid minerals found in a native state - making it highly attractive, valuable and the most prized of all metals. A rich, golden-yellow color, these dazzlers occur in nugget, grain, flake, massive, or occasionally octahedral or dodecahedral form, but often in veins within Quartz. Gold is extremely soft and malleable (registering only 2.5 on the Mohs Scale) and is remarkably pure, along with being remarkably inert; this means it does not react nor bond with most other chemicals and thus will not tarnish or rust. Because of this, in alchemy, Gold is called a "noble" metal. But to increase Gold's hardness, it is alloyed with Silver (transforming Gold to White Gold), Copper (to Pink or Rose Gold) or other metals so that it may become the adornments we so desire. Here, the percentage of alloy is measured in karats (K, Kt); 24 karats equals 100% gold (no jewelry is made of 24 K gold), whereas 14 karat gold is 14 parts out of 24 (or 58%) pure gold.

Also a Native Element and highly prized, Silver occurs in wiry, curvy form, or dendritic, scaly or massive habits and occasionally, but rarely, in octahedrals or dodecahedrals. It is also a very soft metal, registering only 2.5-3.0 on the Mohs Scale - and like Gold, too soft to be able to be worn well so it too enjoys commingling with another. (Sterling Silver is 92.5% Silver with the other 7.5 usually Copper.) As a beautiful silvery-white metal, Silver has long been associated with the Moon and the sacred receptive lunar feminine, its 8 properties connected with the same attributes of the Goddess - divine inner wisdom, magick, mystery, insight, psychic powers and perception, and of course, connection with Deity. Its Element is Water, and it is associated to the astrological sign of Cancer. Silver's symbol "Ag" derives from the Latin word "argentum" which in turn derives from the Sanskrit word meaning "white and shining". But when oxidized, Silver will tarnish.

Both Gold and Silver stand for purify and have the ability to purify, and both provide a direct channel to Deity. Hot, fiery Gold is known to attract wealth, success and power, so much so that it also comes with a warning against greed. The term "gold fever" did not enter our vocabulary for no reason and is indicative of just how much power Gold has and of how much feverish fire it can bestow. Those working with Gold do best by adding Silver to their studies and use for its Water Element essence, for Silver's greatest role is in its gifts of insight, intuition and wisdom which will balance and bring awareness to the strength of Gold and counteract any ensuing leanings toward greed. Silver opens a strong connection to the spirit world, from deity to the elementals to the fae, and promotes all things spiritual. It is a mirror to the soul. It enhances Astral travel or tapping into the subconscious along with offering its protection. Many believe there is a "silver cord" or "life thread" that is connected to the etheric and physical body that guides us back from dream state and ethereal journeys.

Behold Au! He who has scattered his desirous golden seed over the lands on and within every forest, mountain and hillside. We rejoice in your presence! Heal us! Purify us! Shower us in your warmth and bathe us in your light. Rise up and attend - the Goddess awaits you. ¤ Behold Ag! She who brings forth every bud, leaf and blossom of insight, over every forest, mountain and hillside, with electrifying allure. We rejoice in your presence! Nurture us! Guide us! Plant and grant us your deep wisdom. Open all hearts - Receive your lover.

Who first discovered Gold remains a mystery, as there is much myth and legend surrounding this royal metal. What we do know is that Gold has been mined for at least 6000 years. Ancient sources of Gold were in the Upper Nile region of Egypt and Nubia ("Nub" being the Egyptian word for "gold") and the lands of ancient Mesopotamia, but during the Middle Ages the main sources were the mines of Saxony and Austria. Today, half the world's Gold comes out of South Africa, with other notable sources being Australia, Russia, Canada and the U.S.. Rare small crystals of Gold have been found in California, U.S., while giant nuggets over 200 pounds have been discovered in Australia. In the past, most Gold was recovered from river and stream gravels, called "placer deposits" where small flakes or particles of the mineral concentrated after being weathered away from its host rock. The ancients also mined veins of Gold by using tools of the day - bone picks, stone Pyrite - Fool's Gold hammers, wooden trowels, and some say even a melting process where they would set the vein aflame. Later in time came the use of special pans for panning for Gold near alluvial deposits, a process where extraneous gravels are slowly washed away through the swirling and shaking of the pan in the water, leaving the gold flakes, scales or nuggets in the bottom of the pan since Gold is heavier than most other minerals. Other forms of mining include dredging, sluicing and the typical hard rock mining where Gold is extracted from hydrothermal veins within Quartz or even Pyrite. Pyrite has being nicknamed "Fool's Gold" because of its similar color and for the fact that it's been often mistaken for Gold even though Pyrite is generally a more silvery-gold hue.

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Silver is widely distributed throughout the world and yet is considered rare compared to other metals. Most Silver comes from Mexico, U.S., Canada, Australia, Peru and Russia, and while native Silver can be found, most of it is mined as a byproduct in the refining of lead, copper and zinc. And oddly, or maybe not so oddly, Silver and Gold are often found nestled together within certain deposits. As if added proof of Silver and Gold's love for each other, a naturally occurring gold- silver alloy called "Electrum" exists, and it is thought that the earliest coins in history were made from this amalgam in the ancient kingdom of Lydia (modern day Turkey) c. 600 BC. The lands of Lydia and nearby Ionia were rich and prosperous and noted for their wealth which could be attributed to Lydia's King Alyattes' minting of these Electrum coins. They are often considered the first true commercial currency whose earliest issues featured a roaring lion.

Throughout history in both fact and legend, a whole host of sacred images, icons, amulets, jewelry, adornments and artifacts were fashioned out of either Gold or Silver and many an altar has been adorned with them. There are so many beautiful and interesting things these precious metals were used for, that I will only name a few of the most notable here - for instance, the burial effigy mask and coffin of the Egyptian child- king Tutankhamen. Early Egyptians were enamored of Gold and the royal blue stone Lapis Lazuli and emerald green Malachite. They constructed elaborate burial adornments with these minerals to signify wealth or to denote the nobility of the deceased. The ancient Mayans and Aztecs prized Silver as highly as they did Gold and used it to mold images of their gods. In legend, it is said the Druids collected mistletoe with sickles made of Gold. And in Irish myth, when King Nuada lost his arm in battle, the god of healing, Dian Cécht, made him an artificial arm of Silver so that he would be able to return to his throne. Within Hinduism, the ancient Vedas expound upon the virtues of Silver and other pure metals for healing. Tibetan Bonpo shamanism tell of the waters of "a river filled with silver sands that will make anyone who drinks from it as lovely as a peacock". Yes, the love affair goes on and on. And as Gold is indestructible, it is a fact that all the Gold ever mined is nearly equal to all the Gold in use today, so it is not inconceivable that what Gold we wear today may have once belonged to some ancient King, Queen or nobleman...perhaps even our own ancestors!

Gold has been nicknamed "The Master Healer" and is noted for its aid in purification of the physical body, whereas Silver is our "Master Conductor" and opens the channels of our mind and spirit. Silver's conductivity of heat and electricity is second to none; it is used extensively in electrical applications. The largest single use of Silver was in the pre-digital photographic industry, and without which it would have made early photography impossible. Silver is highly reactive to light. And with Gold as the Sun, need I say more? ;)

In the realm of healing, Silver and Gold can be very helpful. Use Gold as an aid in purification of all forms, for added vitality, in combating depression, rejuvenating the Nervous System, enhancing mental faculties, improving digestion, circulation or heart disease...just to name a few. It truly is a versatile mineral. And use Silver as an aid for emotional distress, anxiety, sleep disorders, to eliminate toxins at a cellular level, reduce fevers, balance hormones, or help rectify poor vision. A fine elixir can be made from either of our sparkling beauties. To make the elixir, take 3 Gold or Silver coins, cleanse them well and then place them into a lidded glass container to which you have added fresh spring water. Place it in full sunlight and moonlight for a full 24-72 hours (the longer the stronger) and the resulting mineral water may then be consumed. For additional amplification, surround the glass container with 7 Quartz 10 crystal points - the terminated ends facing the water and coins throughout the process. Gold has a warming and rejuvenating tendency, whereas Silver has a cooling and soothing tendency. Together they create a balancing effect. In magick, both Gold and Silver can be used with great accuracy in money spells. But no matter what you use them for, they both assist greatly in the bending of energies and the directing of magick's flow. Silver is excellent for use in any Moon magick; Gold is excellent for use in any Sun magick. Combine the two and you have a dynamite powerhouse effect!

Although there is much, much more to say about Gold and Silver, and even though I could go on and on about these two lofty lovers - more than I could ever put down within this small article - I cannot close without simply adding a few words about two other all-important aspects of Gold and Silver - their intense sexuality and sensuality. With Gold projective and Silver receptive, we have both virile strength and tender submission. We have passionate movement and sensuous abandon. We have assertive love and inserted sentience. Our own love of Gold and Silver has transcended Time. From Mount Olympus to modern day Olympics, they are the metals of the gods and the medals of our heroes, both signifying royalty, honor, success, spirituality, life and love.

As the veil now is thin as it is at high Samhain, grant us your gold visions and silvery tongue that we may see through your eyes and speak of your glory and dance to the songs our ancestors once sung. We will revel this night and bask in love's story, as the fire grows high and the silver bell's rung.

Happy Beltane!

Sources:

Smithsonian Rock & Gem, R.L. Bonewitz. 2005.

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, . 1988.

Love Is In the Earth, Melody. 2008

http://www.galleries.com/minerals/elements/class.htm

http://rjohara.net/coins/lydia-electrum

http://rg.ancients.info/lion/article.html

http://www.silvermedicine.org/history.html

Gold himself & Silver herself.

© Patricia J. Martin (a.k.a. Pari), April, 2010 Pari lives in the northeast, USA, and is a Shamanic Witch. She has been a member of EW since 2002. http://www.peacefulpaths.com 11 Metaphysics plate, clothes to keep us warm and all the little things that make life tolerable?

A Most Powerful Force It can be a very simple answer to a parent. The child comes first, right? Parents are used to sacrifice. The By Tamra L. Consbruck average human being will more than agree that anything else would be going against our nature. “We all need to look into the dark side of our nature - that's where the energy is, the But what about when the child has grown and moves passion. People are afraid of that because it away, when he rushes off to build his own life? Do we continue to sacrifice passion for our obligations, holds pieces of us we're busy denying.” loyalties and connection with family members, friends, and partners? Who are we willing to hurt? Sue Grafton What are we willing to destroy? How many might suffer for this one intense, empowering life-affirming Jolt of exhilaration? hat is it about passion that can make someone risk W almost anything to attain it? Even in the face of It is one of the most all-consuming sensations we have reason, we must work to stay the course of simple the ability to experience. But not every passion is logic. One person can physically have everything he equal in its power. Almost everyone has some amount ever thought he wanted, but be unable to enjoy it in of passion for something in their individual existences; the absence of that one emotion which reminds us we specific subjects, causes, hobbies and deep spiritual are indeed, living, breathing human animals. beliefs can all spark passion into flame.

Intellectually don’t we know the consequences of But only one wakens us to blaze in all our glory, good chasing this emotion? Shouldn’t we simply be rational or bad, soaring beyond all others. When mixed with a and continue to tend to our homes, marriages, few choice lesser ingredients, we can’t help but fall families, jobs, and various toys, than to actively under its powerful spell, and we often damn all seek something that can so easily destroy everything consequences in our quest to capture it. we’ve worked so hard for? This monster in mind as well as in body is the carnal Like fear, rage, and love, Passion wakes us up, makes passion. Ah, an animal unto itself, wild and us feel alive. It heats the blood, stirs the soul, and unrestrained in its Intense and molten hunger; frantic feeds us. Yes, feeds us. It’s like jumping off a steep and desperate in its need; an overwhelming, cliff into cold dark waters. We may know it’s not a uncontrollable desire to consume and to be consumed good idea. Perhaps we may not even survive it. But by another. This most powerful of forces devours all when we suck in that first breath of air after breaking reason and practicality. Like a black hole, it sucks into the surface of the water, the experience makes us it all desires of physical sensation and pleasure and realize that we indeed live and breathe. And would even pain. It purges all extrinsic objectivity from our we not be more aware of this fact now than during the minds. moments or even years before we jumped? Above all it is the emotion in itself that we risk all And what of the few of us who spend our entire lives calm and comfort for. It enables us to submerge, to creating a safe manageable, comfortable existence meld our life energies, not only with the one we touch simply by denying passion, locking it away along with and who touches us, but with all energy. For one very all those other pesky emotions? Perhaps in childhood instant in time we are no longer one. We are the twisted passions of others caused us harm, leaving everything. jagged scars to remind us of old dangers and pain. "Death is not the biggest fear we have;

Control of one’s life, both physical and emotional is our biggest fear is taking the risk to be alive; for most of us, a difficult state to achieve and the risk to be alive and express what we maintain. Passion may seem a justifiable sacrifice for really are." safety, stability and comfort. Is it worth the lack thereof for a roof above our heads, food on our child’s Don Miguel Ruiz

June 08th 2009 © by Tamra L. Consbruck Tamra lives on the West Coast, USA and is an Eclectic/Metaphysical Witch. She has been an EW member since 2003. 12 The Pagan Kitchen By OwlOak

MM Folks...well, another Beltane is upon us. A time to revel in the return of the Goddess and frolic in the woods 'sowing our wild oats'. Heck...even this old guy, with snow on what is left of his roof, still has a fire in the hearth.

However, after the day’s festivities of dancing around the May Pole, jousting with the wreath, and riding the hobby-horses, we do need to recharge our batteries for the evening’s festivities of chasing all those nubile la- dies through the woods…and the stamina to deal with catching them, or being caught.

Now, I don't know about the rest of you folks, but a Beltane celebration to me always includes a 'Pot Luck' dinner. That means a grill, steaks, hot dogs, burgers, sausage, the specialties of the ladies and gents, and the rest of the food associated with a good time and gathering of folks.

So, with all of this in mind, here are a few tempting dishes you might like to bring to the table:

Laura's Sweet and Sour Chicken 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, de-veined, and finely minced (optional) by: Laura (aurorarose67) 2 3/4-cups milk 1 lb. (454 gms.) Pasteurized Prepared Cheese Product (such as Velveeta®), cubed

Topping: 1/4-cup dry bread crumbs 1 tbsp. butter, melted

Directions: Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 350° 3-4 cups cooked chicken, cubed F (177°C). 1 pkg. onion soup mix 8 oz. (227 gms.) Catalina salad dressing Cook the noodles according to package directions. 1 can chunk pineapple, drained Drain and set aside. 1 green or red sweet bell pepper, cut into chunks 1 jar maraschino cherries, drained Melt the butter in a large pot. Add the jalapeño, then stir in the flour, garlic salt and onion salt until well Directions: mixed. Then gradually stir in the milk until smooth. Put the chicken in a slow cooker, top with the salad Bring to a boil; and stir until it's thickened. * dressing and onion soup mix, and cook on low for 5 hours. Add the cheese and stir until it's melted, then stir in the drained noodles. In the last hour or so, add the rest of the fruit and veggies as wanted, then serve over rice. Transfer the mixture to a greased shallow 2-qt. baking dish. Note: This can cook longer without burning...it just gets better. Combine the bread crumbs and melted butter until crumbly and sprinkle them over the casserole.

Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes or until golden And, as a side: brown and bubbly.

Spicy Noodle and Cheese Casserole *You can tell when it is the right consistency when it by: OwlOak coats the stirring spoon without dripping off. Ingredients 1 pkg. wide egg noodles Note: To "kick-it-up a notch", your favorite vegetable, 1/4-cup (1/2 stick) butter, cubed a can of drained tuna, or some diced meat may be 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour added. Put them in the pot with the butter and cook 1/2 tsp. garlic salt until tender before you add the flour, jalapeño, spices, 1/2 tsp. onion salt and milk. 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper, or to taste 13

For those of you who would prefer a lighter dish: 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 pinches of cayenne pepper (optional) Tropical Grilled Tilapia Directions: by: OwlOak Ingredients: Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large plastic freezer bag. Seal and shake well to mix them. 4 Tilapia fillets, or as many as needed Add the Tilapia fillets to the marinade, seal the bag, and allow it to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Marinade: Turn the bag after 15 minutes to insure that the fillets

are all covered with the marinade. 3/4-cup light olive oil 2 tbsp. lime juice (1/2 Remove the fillets from the marinade and place on a fresh lime) hot greased grill. Cook 2-3 minutes per side. 1 tbsp. oregano 1/2 tsp. black pepper Note: If you're pressed for time, use Italian Salad 1/4-cup balsamic vinegar Dressing in place of the mentioned marinade. It works 1/2-cup broad-leaf parsley, finely chopped well for all fish, meat, and poultry.

And: Bring a saucepan three-fourths full of water to a boil over high heat. Add the potatoes and cook until they Grilled-Potato Salad with Balsamic can just be pierced with a fork but are not completely tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Do not overcook. Drain, pat Dressing dry, and brush with the olive oil.

by: OwlOak Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for direct grilling over Ingredients: medium-high heat.

Place the bacon in a cast-iron fry pan over the hottest part of a charcoal fire, or directly over the burners of a grill. Cook the bacon until crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain.

Oil the grill rack. Place the potatoes on the grill and grill them over the hottest part of a charcoal fire, or directly over the burners of a gas grill. Turn once or twice until lightly browned and tender when pierced with a fork; 15 to 20 minutes total, depending on the size of the potatoes.

2 lb. (900 gms.) whole and unpeeled, red or white new Transfer the potatoes to a cutting board and let cool potatoes until they can just be handled, then cut them into 1 in. 5 lean bacon slices (2.5 cm.) pieces...skin and all.

Light olive oil, or peanut oil, for brushing* To make the balsamic dressing:

For the Balsamic dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic 1/4-cup olive oil vinegar, spicy mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and 1/4-cup balsamic vinegar black pepper.

2 tsp. spicy mustard In a large serving bowl, toss the warm potatoes, bell 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional, and to taste) pepper and onion with the dressing until all the Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste ingredients are evenly coated; let stand for up to 30 1 cup chopped red or green bell pepper minutes to blend the flavors. Crumble the bacon and 1 small red onion, thinly sliced mix it into the salad, and garnish with the paprika and 1/3-cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley parsley. Serve at room temperature.

Paprika, as needed (optional) *Olive and peanut oils will accept higher temperatures Directions: without burning. For the beefeaters out there...you have not been For the potatoes: forgotten:

14 Beef and Fluffy Dumpling Casserole Gradually add the beef broth and bring to a boil. Cook by: OwlOak and stir for 1 minute then reduce the heat. Add the peas and carrots, and diced potatoes. Continue to cook Ingredients: for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the beef, then pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 x 2 in. (23 x 33 Filling: x 5 cm.) baking dish. 1/2-cup chopped onion 1/2-cup chopped For the dumplings: celery In a small bowl, combine the baking mix and basil. 2 garlic cloves, minced Stir in the milk with a fork until moistened. Drop by 1/4-cup butter, cubed tablespoonfuls into 12 mounds over the beef mixture. 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 Bake, uncovered for 30 minutes. Cover and bake for in. (1.3 cm.) cubes. and additional 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted 1/2-cup all-purpose in a dumpling comes out clean. flour 2 tsp. sugar *If you wish to make your own "homemade" baking 1 tsp. salt mix, see the following recipe: 1 tsp. dried basil 1/2 tsp. pepper 4 cups beef broth Bis-Quick-As-A-Wink Baking Mix 1-10 oz. (284 gms.) package frozen green peas and Source: carrots 4 cups sautéed beef, cubed Mastercook (http://mastercook.cdkitchen.com/)

Dumplings: 8 cups flour 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick ®)* 1-1/4 cup nonfat dry milk 2 tsp. dried basil 1/4 cup baking powder 2/3-cup milk 1 tbsp. salt 2 cups solid vegetable shortening Directions: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large bowl, combine flour, milk, baking powder, and salt. With a pastry blender or two knives, cut in For the filling: shortening until the mixture looks like coarse In a large saucepan, sauté the onion, celery and garlic cornmeal and the shortening is evenly distributed. in the butter until tender. Stir in the flour, sugar, salt, Store in tightly closed covered container in a dark, basil and pepper until blended. cool place. Use in place of Bisquick ® in any recipe.

For dessert we have a couple that are sure to please Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) everyone: Mix together the oatmeal, flour, and brown sugar. Add the nuts, then cut in the butter or margarine until Connie's Strawberry Crisp crumbly. by: Connie (Flukefishing2000) In another bowl mix strawberries and white sugar to- Ingredients: gether. 1 cup uncooked oatmeal Grease an 8" (20 cm.) square pan. Spread half the 1 cup all purpose crumb mixture on the bottom and flour cover with the strawberries, then spread the remaining 1 cup brown sugar crumb mixture over the top. 1/4-cup chopped walnuts Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. 1/2-cup butter or margarine Serve Warm or Cold and topped with whipped cream 1/2-cup sugar or non-dairy topping...... (I prefer the real thing. lol) 3 cups sliced fresh or frozen strawberries ENJOY!!!!!!! Directions: BB Connie 15

And, last but not least: Topping: Rhubarb and Sour Cream Squares Mix the brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and allspice until crumbly and set aside. by: OwlOak Squares: Ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream together the white sugar, 1/2-cup packed brown vegetable shortening and egg. sugar 1 tbsp. unsalted butter, Sift the flour, baking soda and salt together then melted slowly add, alternately with the sour cream, to the 1 1/2-cups white sugar creamed mixture. When it is all incorporated, stir in 1 egg the rhubarb. 1 tsp. baking soda 1 cup sour cream Pour the mixture into the greased pan and sprinkle 1 tsp. ground cinnamon with the reserved topping. 1 tsp. ground allspice 1/2-cup vegetable shortening Bake for 45 to 50 minutes. 2 cups all-purpose flour Remove from the oven and allow to cool a bit, then 1/2 tsp. salt cut into squares and serve warm or cool. 2 cups chopped rhubarb stalks

Note: For a real treat, serve them warm, topped with a Directions: whipped cream non-dairy topping or your favorite ice Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). cream (vanilla works great). Grease and flour a 9 x 13 x 2 in. (23 x 33 x 5 cm.) pan.

And, to wash it all down with, this delightful punch: Ingredients: 1/4-cup fresh mint leaves, bruised May Day Punch 1-16 oz. (5 liter) can pineapple juice 1 small can frozen orange juice concentrate by: OwlOak 1 pkg. frozen sliced strawberries, thawed

4 cans lemon-lime soda 1 lemon, cut into rings 1 lime, cut into rings 1 orange, cut into rings Mead, or your favorite alcoholic beverage, optional and to taste Ice cubes, as needed

Directions: Combine all the ingredients in a large punch bowl. Stir to mix thoroughly.

Well, folks, there we have it...a delicious repast to energize and bolster the body for the evening’s festivities to come. Until the next issue... From my Circle to yours…a very Merry Beltane!!!

Hugggs & B*B ~ OwlOak

This article contains recipes of my own, and/or other credited individuals. Mine are either original or adapted from those I've acquired over the years, along with family recipes that have been handed down to me by dearly departed family members. Any duplication of recipes created by others is accidental and unintentional.

Responsibility for the source and content of any submitted and published recipe is strictly the responsibility of the originator.

If anyone wishes to comment or make suggestions on the Pagan Kitchen please feel free to write me . Please mention "Pagan Kitchen" in the subject line so it doesn't go into the "Spam" file.

© 2010 James Rancourt, aka OwlOak OwlOak lives in New England, USA and is a Wiccan High Priest. He has been an EW member since 2003. 16 The Herb Garden. straight off the vine, or used in drinks, jams, jellies and salad dressings. In the United States, Passion The Passion Vine. Vine grows as far north as Ohio, where I first grew it. It will die back in the winter but returns in full force in the Spring and will bloom in late May/early June – and yes I even had fruit. Here in the Caribbean, where I live now, it is everywhere. The fruit is sold in the grocery stores, the Iguanas eat the leaves, and the hummingbirds love the flowers. It does well if it has a fence to climb on, as it loves to climb. I’ve heard it will start springing up in unwanted spots if it doesn’t have enough room to climb, so beware where you plant it. Apart from this, it is very easy to grow.

Medicinal Uses:

A Spanish physician by the name of Monardes discovered the Passion Flower’s medicinal properties in the Andes in 1569 and brought the dried leaves back to the Old World where it became a very popular sedative herbal tea. The Spanish conquerors of by Lyric Moonshadow Mexico learned of the Passion Flowers’ medicinal properties. They introduced it to the Europeans as an As the wheel turns to Beltane we celebrate the union infusion to be used as a nerve tonic and of the young God and the Maiden, Flora, Bona Dea antispasmodic. In the 1800s it was brought to North and Maia Goddess of increase whose name is the root America by slaves in the South where the crushed of May. The theme of Beltane is without a doubt leaves were placed on lacerations and bruises to passion. Sensuality and sexuality abound. Vibrant encourage healing and relieve pain. Passion Flower colors, flamboyant fragrances, and the greening all has been used in the United States and Europe as a round us bring forth passion; the Maiden’s passion, homeopathic treatment and herbal supplement for our own passion, and the passion of the earth to bloom more than 200 years. Today it is used to treat colic, and reproduce. What better time to celebrate the diarrhea, dysentery, PMS and menstrual pain, beautiful, adaptable and prolific Passion Vine. neuralgia, insomnia and eye disorders. Standard dosage is: as a simple infusion one cup two to three History and Folklore: Although the Passion Vine times a day; or 2-3 grams in tablet form two to three (Passiflora) is believed to originate in Asia, Australia, times a day. Passion Flower leaves are classified as Polynesian Islands and tropical Americas, it was first “Generally Regarded as Safe” by the FDA, however discovered in South America and brought to Europe use by pregnant or nursing Moms or children is by Spanish explorers in Peru. The distinctive white discouraged without consulting a healthcare and purple flower was named the Passion Flower by professional. As always, let your physician know of Spanish Missionaries who thought it reflected the any over the counter supplements you take. Recently crucifixion of Christ – the 10 leaves represent the 10 there has been interesting research conducted using faithful apostles, the five anthers symbolize the five the Passion Flower. Traditionally, Passion Flower wounds inflicted on Jesus, and the purple cornea was also used as an aphrodisiac and a cough represent the crown of the thorns. Other names for the suppressant. In 2003 there was a study conducted in Passion Vine include Maypop, Sweet Granadilla, mice using the leaves of the Passion Flower. The Maracuja, Maracoc and Tumbos. study found that the mice had improved sex and reproductive function as well as litter size. Another Characteristics and Growing: study done with mice in 2002 found that Passion Flower leaves had the same effect as codeine as a The Passion Vine is a prolific perennial. Many of the cough suppressant. Maybe someday men may be 400 or more species can grow in colder climates and using Passion Flowers instead of Viagra!! varieties of the vine appear in every continent except Antarctica. The Passion Vine has a woody vine which Magickal Uses and Characteristics: can grow up to ½ an inch in thickness. It is extremely strong and in keeping with its origins, easily grows Gender: Feminine, Planet: Venus, Element: Water, over other foliage to make its way through to the Powers: peace, sleep, attracting friends and lovers, canopy of the Amazon forest. In addition to its increasing libido. According to Cunningham, carry striking flowers, it also produces a fruit which starts Passion Flower to attract friends and great popularity. out green and turns yellow as it ripens, growing to the Placed under your pillow it aids in sleep, and the size of a large lemon. The Passion Fruit is eaten flowers placed in the home will help calm problems 17 and troubles and bring peace to the the room where everyone gathers home. Cat Yronwode agrees in the most. Whenever tension seems “Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic”. to build, repeat the above chant 3 She states that Passion Vine will times and envision peace and bring peace to the home when tranquility radiating from the grown on the front fence. She also pouch and the Goddess . suggests that carrying dried Passion Flowers or Passion Vine Beltane is one of the most beautiful root in a red flannel bag dressed and joyful of all the Sabbats. We with a love oil and a metal figure can feel the warm breezes and the of a hummingbird will bring you flowers popping up all around us luck in love. and the grass is turning that wonderful springtime emerald Spell for Peace and Harmony green and the smell of spring and early summer is everywhere. Just This spell is very good if there is a as the ancient Romans celebrated lot of turmoil or stress in the the Goddess Flora as protector of household. the spring flowers; and ancient drove the cattle on Beltane Do the following spell, and while Eve between the Beltane fires to doing so, remember to focus on Original Art by Lyric ensure their fertility and to protect your intent for a peaceful them for another season; so we household. continue these rites as we celebrate and honor the God

Sew a small pouch of lavender cloth leaving enough by dancing the Maypole and pay homage to the fabric on the top so you can tie it with a lavender Goddesses of Spring by making circlets and wearing ribbon. flowers in our hair. The circle of life continues and we are all part of it. It is said that just as the veil is Place a small trinket in the pouch to represent each thinnest at Samhain, it is intermingled and intersected member of your household. at Beltane and anything can happen. May your Beltane be full of flowers and passion. I promise you Add to this a pinch each of dried lavender, rose and mine will! Passion Flower. Before placing each pinch in the pouch, remember to hold it for a moment and Bibliography: REALLY focus. Finally, add a small amethyst or celestite to the pouch and tie it with a lavender ribbon. Spell work: adapted from: http://www.khakani.com spell for a peaceful home. Now, anoint a lavender or pink candle with lavender oil and then light it and place it on your altar. http://www.controverscial.com/Stones%20and% 20Gems.htm Sit in front of the candle and hold the pouch in your hands and whisper the following chant over it softly 3 Taylor, Leslie. The Healing Powers of Rainforest times Herbs. Long Island, N.Y.: Square One Publishing. 2005 “Blessed Goddess, most gentle one, calm my home. Relieve all tension, send it far, so from stress we shall Yronwode, Catherine. Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic. be free. Forestville Ca. Lucky Mojo Curio Company. 2002

Touch my family with peace and calm, and the Mrs. M. Grieve – A Modern Herbal. sweetest softest bliss. www.botanical.com

Bless my home, Great Gentle Goddess, with your Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of calming kiss. So mote it be.” Magical Herbs. St. Paul. Llewellyn Publications, 2001 Put the pouch on your altar with the candle and allow the candle to burn down completely while you visualize your home and family filled with peace and harmony. Hang the pouch in your home, preferably in

© 2010 Lyric MoonShadow Lyric lives in Canton Ohio, USA, and has recently relocated to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. She is a Shamanic Eclectic Wiccan and has been a member of EW since 2007 18

larvae to adult, takes 16 days, while Worker bees take The Honey Bee 21 days, and Drones 24 days.

The Queen bee has a longer body and larger abdomen than other bees in the colony and can measure up to 20mm. She also has a curved, smooth stinger that can be used repeatedly throughout her life. In contrast, the Worker bees have a straight, barbed stinger that when used remains firmly anchored in the flesh of its victim. When trying to withdraw the stinger from its victim, the Worker bee in effect tears away part of its abdomen and as a result dies shortly afterwards.

Within the colony, Worker bees far outnumber the Drones, which typically during the spring can number from 8,000 to 15,000, by the early summer however, this number can grow to as many as 80,000. Worker Written and compiled by George Knowles bees born early in the spring season usually live for about 6 weeks, while those born in the late autumn The common Honeybee is a subset of bees belonging will survive through the winter until the following to the insect order Hymenoptera (of the genus group spring. Unlike many other species of bees, Honeybees Apis mellifera ) and represents just a small fraction of do not hibernate through the winter. The average approximately 20,000 known species of bees. lifespan of a Queen bee can range from one to eight Honeybees are distinguished from other bees by their years. production of honey and the construction of colony nests (hives) out of beeswax. While there are other Young Worker bees are called ‘house bees’ and are types of bees that also produce honey, only members employed mainly in constructing the hive. While of the genus group Apis are true Honeybees. lacking the ability to mate and reproduce, they secrete wax, which is used to build and maintain the The Honeybee is a highly social insect that survives honeycomb structure of the hive. They are also kept only as a member of a colony. A colony is typically busy converting nectar and pollen into honey, rearing made up of three types of bees called castes, which the brood, tending to the Queen and Drones, cleaning include: Queen bees (the reproductive females), and when necessary defending the hive. Worker bees (sterile female bees) and Drones (the male bees). Each caste or type of bee is associated As the young develop, the older Worker bees become with a different function within the colony, and each known as ‘field bees’, and leave the hive to forage possesses unique differences geared to maintaining the outside gathering nectar, pollen and water needed to needs and structure of the colony. sustain the colony. Worker bees measure up to about

12 mm and are highly adapted for the work they do. The Queen bee is the only sexually productive female They have a structure called a pollen basket (or in the colony. After mating with the Drones, sperm corbiculum ) on each hind leg, an extra stomach for finds its way into a small sac-like organ located in her storing and transporting nectar and pollen, and four abdomen called the ‘ spermatheca ’. From this her pairs of special glands that secrete wax on the capacity for laying eggs becomes quite prolific, underside of their abdomen. producing in excess of 1,500 eggs in a day. She can also control the sex of her offspring, for when an egg The field bees bring in nectar from many flowers and passes from the ovary to the oviduct, depending on the on entering the hive with a full honey sac, regurgitate needs of the colony, she may or may not choose to the contents into the mouths of the young Worker bees fertilise it with sperm. Those that do get fertilised who then deposit the nectar in a cell and carry out the develop into female bees, either as Queen bees or tasks necessary to convert it to honey. When the Workers bees, while unfertilised eggs develop as the honey is fully ripened or thickened, the cell is sealed male Drone bees. with an airtight wax capping and stored for winter

supplies. Eggs are laid in individual cells of the hive and hatch within three days, after which the larvae is fed on Pollen is the principal source of protein, fat, minerals ‘royal jelly’ for two days (a substance secreted by the and vitamins, and is essential for the growth and worker bees that is high in protein), and then on development of the colony. Besides gathering and pollen, nectar or honey. Each of the hundreds of storing food for the colony, the Worker bees are also larvae must be fed many times a day, and to achieve responsible for maintaining the hive at 34° C (93° F), this the Queen bee and her Worker bees operate as a the optimum temperature required for hatching the team. The development of Queen bees from egg to Queen’s eggs and rearing the brood. When a hive 19 becomes too hot they collectively ventilate it by as well as a paint-varnish. fanning their wings, and during cool weather will cluster tightly together in the hive to generate heat. In ancient Greece situated on the southern slopes of The Drone bee has only one function in the colony, Mount Parnassus, Delphi and that is to mate with the new Queen bees. Mating was the location of the takes place out in the open air away from the hive, famous oracle temple of after which the Drone bee dies. Recent studies of their Apollo. Inside the temple mating habits have established that the Queen bee is the “Omphalos”, a usually mates with six or more Drones in the course of decorated beehive shaped a few days. Drones are active in the colony during the stone covered with what spring and summer months, but as autumn and the look like sculpted colder weather approaches they are driven out of the engravings of Honeybees. hive by the Worker bees and left to die. This was used as a symbol indicating that Delphi in Greece was the The importance of Honeybees to agriculture is now centre of the world. Pythia, Apollo’s chief oracle well established, as more than 50 cultivated food crops priestess was also known as the Delphic Bee. require them for pollination. Crops that are either entirely dependent on insect pollination, or produce In many ancient cultures, Mead made from honey was more abundantly because of them, include: fruit crops believed to be the immortal drink of the Gods. In (such as - almonds, apples, apricots etc.); and seed Greek mythology it was associated with the Gods of crops (such as - alfalfa, asparagus, broccoli etc.). It is Olympus, and a symbol of Knowledge, Learning and estimated that the value of the pollinating service Wisdom. As a food resource, it was reserved only for rendered by Honeybees far outweighs that of the the elected, the initiated and exceptional people. It has Honey and Beeswax they produce. been reported that Pythagoras ate nothing but honey throughout his entire life. Mythology and Symbolism. Because of their industrious and organized behaviour, In Egyptian mythology Honeybees were born from the Honeybees are seen as a symbol of Perseverance, tears of Râ , the Sun God. When he cried his tears fell Unity and Teamwork. They are also seen as a symbol onto the soil of the earth and were transformed into of sacredness, being associated with the Mother bees that built honeycombs and produced honey. Bees Goddess or Divine Feminine. Ruled by the Queen were also associated with the Egyptian Great Mother bee, the hive is likened to the womb of the Great Goddess Neith who ruled over hunting and warfare. Mother. Her cult was centred in the town of Sais (modern Sa al -Hajar) where her temple was known as per-bit - In Celtic myths, Honeybees are endowed with great meaning “the house of bees”. wisdom, and thought to be spirit messengers between worlds. Honey was treated as a magical substance and Similarly the rulers of ancient Egypt were associated used in many ancient rituals. As the food of the Gods, with bees. Before the union of Upper and Lower the use of honey, royal jelly, bee pollen and beeswax Egypt (circa 3200 BC), the ruling Kings of Lower in ritual was seen as a sacred and magical act Egypt used the title bit - meaning “he of the bee”, connected to the divine blessings of the Goddess and whereby the Kings of Upper Egypt used the title nesw God. - meaning “he of the sedge”. Later after the union, the new rulers used the title nesw-bit - meaning “he of the Today the common term “Blessed Be” can also be sedge and the bee”, which has been translated as written as “Blessed Bee”, which has a strong “King of Upper and Lower Egypt”. connection to the ancient Craft of the Wise, and therefore the divine blessing of love, protection and To the Egyptians bees were of great importance. In abundance. domestic use, Honey, the main product of bees, was a principal sweetener in their diets and used as a base Sources: for medicinal ointments. Honey was also regarded as a symbol of resurrection, and thought to give Man, Myth and Magic - Edited by Richard Cavendish protection against evil spirits. Small pottery flasks found in the tomb of the boy-king Tutankhamun http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bee_(mythology) contained hieroglyphic inscriptions indicating that http://www.thebeegoddess.com/index.html they originally contained honey. They also collected beeswax, which was used to make decorative moulds, Plus other websites too many to mention.

01st April 2010 © George Knowles George Knowles lives in the UK and is a student of history pertaining to witchcraft. http://www.controverscial.com 20

who were respectively the son and grandson of Khufu. Mysteries of the Great Note that the pyramid of Khafre, which still has some of its higher capping stones in tact, often appears in Pyramid photographs to be the largest of the pyramids at the (Part 1) Giza site. This is due to the fact that it is built on higher ground. by Graham D. Furnell Pyramid building in ancient Egypt began in the Third The Great Pyramid at Giza, Egypt, is the oldest and Dynasty (2,686-2,613 BCE) with its second pharaoh only survivor of the famous Seven Wonders of the Djoser (also called Zoser) and the high priest at ancient world. Even in today’s world, complete with Heliopolis, Imhotep. Together they pursued the its range of sophisticated technologies, the pyramid concept, and were responsible for construction of such a structure would surely stretch constructing the world’s first monumental building resources to the limit. The logistics alone are mind made entirely of stone – the Step Pyramid at Saqqara. boggling – for example, calculations show that the This pyramid was a symbolic “stairway to the stars”, material in this pyramid (more than two million blocks and the durability of its materials was meant to ensure of stone, many precision cut, and all weighing no less eternal life for Djoser’s ba (soul). The subsequent than 2 tons) would fill an end-to-end queue of semi- Third Dynasty pharaohs Sekhemkhet, Khaba and Huni trailer trucks spanning one quarter of the Earth’s all commenced the construction of their own stepped circumference! The Great Pyramid is an amazing pyramids, but none were able to be completed. It was enduring testament to the achievements of the ancient not until the Fourth Dynasty (2613-2494 BCE), and Egyptians - achievements that would hardly be the rule of its powerful and prosperous first pharaoh believed today had not this pyramid, and other Sneferu, that successful pyramid building returned to antiquities, survived to provide silent witness. Egypt. Sneferu was the father of Khufu, and was However, apart from its immense size, are there any responsible for the construction of a number of other features of the Great Pyramid that can provide us pyramids, including the famous Bent Pyramid at with insight into its origins, purpose, and legacy? Of Dahshur, and the transformation of an earlier partially course the answer is yes – and in this article I would constructed Step Pyramid into the first true (i.e. flat- like to share these with you, hoping that the discussion sided) pyramid. In fact, the total volume of stone used may lead us to a better understanding of this incredible by Sneferu was more than that used by any other monument and the civilization that produced it. So pharaoh. Such was the lineage of the Great Pyramid. join me on a short journey as we explore the mysteries of the Great Pyramid – and be prepared to be amazed!

Djoser’s Step Pyramid at Saqqara The pyramids at Giza: The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the one furthest to the right, central is the pyramid of The first significant feature of the Great Pyramid that Khafre and leftmost is the pyramid of Menkaure. In we will consider (apart from its sheer size alone!) is the foreground are three smaller pyramids dedicated the precision with which it has been constructed. to Queens. Measurements have determined that its height was originally 280 Egyptian royal cubits (146.6m) and The so-called Great Pyramid is the largest of the each of the four base sides were 440 cubits (231m) pyramids at the Giza site - these days located on the long – making the area covered by the pyramid outskirts of Cairo. It is thought to have been built as a approximately 53,000 square m (13 acres) – to put that tomb for the pharaoh Khufu (Greek name Cheops), into perspective, that’s roughly the area covered by who reigned approximately 4,500 years ago. There are 200 modern-day houses. Despite this, the base is level two other significant yet smaller pyramids at the Giza and flat to within 15mm, and the sides have a mean site - these are the pyramids of Khafre (Greek name error of only 58mm in length. Also, the sides are Chephren) and Menkaure (Greek name Mykerinus), 21 square to within 1 minute of arc (1/60 th of a degree) particular stars. For the King’s chamber, to the North, and are aligned to the cardinal directions more the then “North Pole Star” Alpha Draconis (or accurately than any modern-day structure, including Thuban); and to the South, Zeta Orionis (or Alnitak) - the Meridian Building at Greenwich Observatory in the brightest star in Orion’s Belt, which had an London. Originally, the Great Pyramid was covered important association with the ancient Egyptian God by polished white limestone casing stones, so that the of resurrection and rebirth, Osiris. For the Queen’s monument shone brilliantly in the sun and could be chamber, to the North, Beta Ursa Minor (or Kochab); seen from far away. The ravages of time, earthquakes and to the South, Sirius – which had an important and human intervention have caused many of these association with the ancient Egyptian Mother casing stones to disappear, but some still remain Goddess, Isis, and the birth of her divine child, Horus around the base. These remaining stones show that – an event that was commemorated at the start of they were cut with optical precision to be flat to within every year in the world’s first calendar, with the 0.5mm over the surface of the pyramid. They were beginning of the Nile floods and the dawn rising of also fitted together so perfectly that the tip of a knife Sirius. cannot be inserted between the joints, even to this day. We have seen that the As shown in the following Great Pyramid was diagram, within the constructed with pyramid are a number of incredible precision, but passages, shafts and what about its actual chambers. Many of these dimensions and were precision cut. For geometry? There are example, the longest numerous examples passage is 107m long, yet showing the incorporation deviates from being of sacred geometrical perfectly straight to within dimensions within the 6mm. Another passage inner structure of the 15m long is straight to Great Pyramid - within an amazingly fine particularly in features 0.5mm - that’s comparable such as the Grand to the accuracy of the best Gallery, and the King’s laser-controlled drilling and Queen’s chambers. that can be done today! Of However for the sake of particular interest are the Passages, shafts and chambers within the Great brevity in this article, let’s narrow “breathing shafts”, Pyramid limit our considerations to about 20 cm in diameter the pyramid’s external leading from the so-called dimensions, whose King’s and Queen’s amazing properties can be chambers (just a short note appreciated with the aid here - the terms “King’s” of the following diagram. and “Queen’s” chambers were coined by Arabian The large triangle in this explorers about 1,200 diagram represents a side years ago because these profile view of the Great chambers were found to Pyramid, with the lower have flat and gabled roofs horizontal edge respectively - which representing its base happened to be the burial length, 440 cubits. The custom for Arabian men slope angle of the sides of 0 and women of the time). It the pyramid is 51 51’, has been suggested that which accurately sets the the breathing shafts were The sacred external geometry of the Great ratio of the slant-height of designed with specific Pyramid the pyramid to half its alignments in mind, so that base length to be the so- the ka (spirit) of a buried called “Golden Ratio” or royal would be properly directed for its journey to the “Phi” Φ = 1.61803… How could such a significant stars. Calculations making allowance for the geometrical ratio have been so accurately incorporated precession of the have shown that at the into the design of the Great Pyramid? Some scholars time of construction of the Great Pyramid, these shafts think that it was nothing more than a coincidence, as would indeed have had specific alignments to the ancient Egyptians were not credited with being 22 able to accurately solve the necessary mathematical indications that they may have had a more advanced equations to do so (they would have at least needed to knowledge of our world and indeed the universe know Pythagoras’ theorem - which was presumably around us? The answer is yes, and to me, the not discovered until some 2,000 years later by the following is the most amazing feature of the sacred ancient Greeks). We will probably never know the geometry of the Great Pyramid. If a circle is drawn answer to this question, but rather than dwelling on it, centered as above but having a diameter equal to the let’s consider another feature of the pyramid’s base length of the pyramid, and another smaller circle amazing external geometry. Again looking at the side is drawn so that it is centered at the apex of the profile of the Great Pyramid as shown in the diagram, pyramid, so that it just touches the larger circle, then if one draws a circle centered at the middle of the base these two circles accurately model the relative sizes of and passing through the apex of the pyramid, then the the Earth and Moon! That’s right, our modern circumference of that circle will accurately match the technology shows us that the radius of the Moon is perimeter distance around the square base of the Great 1,738 km and the polar radius of the Earth is 6,357 km Pyramid (1760 cubits). Geometrically, this is known – divide the two and you get a ratio of Moon to Earth as “squaring the circle”, and performing the necessary size = 0.273. Incredibly, mathematical calculations calculations for planning to do this would have show that this is the same ratio formed by the sizes of required an accurate determination of the value of “Pi” the above two geometrical circles obtained from the Π = 3.14159… the ratio of a circle’s circumference to dimensions of the Great Pyramid. its diameter (again, something that was not considered possible until the age of the ancient Greeks some At this point, I would like to pause and reflect a little 2,000 years later). on the possible significance of this amazing fact. Firstly, from the perspective of the ancient Egyptian’s It is worth mentioning here that solving the – if this was intentionally incorporated into the design geometrical problem of squaring the circle, though of the pyramid, then how could they have had access sounding as if it might be fairly straight forward, is a to such “high tech” astronomical knowledge of our problem that has challenged scholars throughout the Earth-Moon system? This is an amazing question to ages - including Leonardo da Vinci, who was ponder – particularly if one considers that over the fascinated by its relation to the dimensions of the millennia since the construction of the Great Pyramid, human body, as alluded to in his famous drawing of human knowledge may have waxed and waned as the Vitruvian Man which featured in his notes. significantly as the many civilizations that have also risen and fallen within the same time period. Secondly, from the perspective of contemplating the possibility of a sacred underlying order in our solar system, it is tempting to ask - what are the chances that the Earth-Moon system would accurately satisfy such a significant geometrical relationship? Not great I would suggest. Personally, I place such phenomena in the same category of “coincidences” as the fact that in the current age, the Sun and Moon sizes/distances just happen to be such that we see the Moon perfectly covering the Sun’s disc during a total solar eclipse – to me an amazingly powerful and seemingly divinely inspired demonstration of the sacred balance between feminine and masculine polarities in Nature.

Finally, one more observation before we leave the topic of sacred geometry and the Great Pyramid. Consider the small right-angled triangle with sides of length 3-4-5 shown at the top left of the diagram illustrating the pyramid’s external dimensions. A 3-4- 5 triangle is the most fundamental representation of Pythagoras’ theorem, and its presence confirms it as yet another piece in the truly amazing, sacred geometrical jig-saw puzzle that is manifested in the Leonardo da Vinci’s famous drawing of the form of the Great Pyramid. Vitruvian Man In Part 2 of this article, we will consider the So it seems that the ancient Egyptians may have fascinating links between the Great Pyramid and other known considerably more mathematics than the megalithic sites around the world, possible uses that history books tell us. But are there any other the Great Pyramid may have had other than being 23 purely a burial shrine for a deceased pharaoh, some been discussed above – you will find that they are mysterious experiences that have occurred within the remarkably accurate! pyramid over the centuries, some metaphysical properties of pyramids, and for the craft-inclined, Sources instructions for constructing your own perfectly scaled model of the Great Pyramid. Until then, wishing you http://en.wikipedia.org/ well and suggesting that if you have the time and inclination, try getting your calculator out and http://www.world-mysteries.com/mpl_2.htm confirming the sacred geometrical ratios that have

© Graham D. Furnell – 18 April 2010. Graham lives in South Australia and is a student of Wicca. He has been a member of EW since 2006. Nature’s Glory Pics from our Members

© Martin Cox

© Lyric Moonshadow

© Martin Cox © Martin Cox 24

Rune Reading:

Gebo

Last month’s rune urged us to be protective; to protect ourselves as well as others. For our efforts we are rewarded with a gift (Gebo).

Drawing back from the September 2009 reading, this rune suggests gift, or exchange. Moreover, it is a rune of partnership (i.e. business, romantic, and sacrificial). This month’s draw suggests that we are up for forging new opportunities, and the bonds which were strengthened by protection (last month’s reading) may evolve into new prospective ventures.

We deserve this gift; we worked hard for it and with it we will better ourselves and the world which we live in. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Rune Reading by: Diancécht Óndulfr Pálsson - aka Rune Man

Rune Man has been a member of Email Witches since the 17th Aug 2009

Pagan Symbolism Septagram / Fairy Star

The seven pointed star is also known as the: Septagram, Septacle, Elven Star or Fairy Star. The number seven corresponds to the spirit realm, which is why this symbol is associated with Elves and Fairies. When used in ritual the seven points of the star represent: earth, air, fire, water, above, below and within. It is also associated with astrology because the classical view of the sky contained seven planets 25 Bards Corner

Bring May Flowers

By Robert Louis Stevenson

All the names I know from verse: Gardener's garters, Shepherd's purse, Bachelor's buttons, Lady's smock, And the Lady Hollyhock.

Fairy places, fairy things, Fairy woods where the wild bee stings, Tiny trees for tiny dames-- These must all be fairy names!

Tiny woods below whose boughs Shady fairies weave a house; Tiny tree-tops, rose or thyme, Where the braver fairies climb!

Fair are grown-up people's trees, But the fairest woods are these; Where if I were not so tall, I should live for good and all. 26

Email Witches is a pagan friendly email group attracting people from all walks of life, from all spectrums of society and from all around the world. Most are individuals seeking a personal practical religion that can be adapted to their own needs and criteria, and Wicca is a wonderfully diverse religion that meets these needs. Email Witches, a Yahoo! Group, is set up as a place where those of same interest can meet, discuss, share and gain more information about their chosen paths. All visitors to my website Controverscial.com are welcome, so feel free to join us and make new friends. The Controversial Cauldron is published each Sabbat

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The Controversial Cauldron Staff Publisher: George Knowles

Contributing Editors: Patricia J Martin Lillian Norman

Contributing Writers: Ardriana Cahill James Rancourt Tamra L. Consbruck Graham D. Furnell Darkhairedcrone Diancécht Óndulfr Pálsson Laura - “recipe” "Photo courtesy PDPhoto.org" Connie - “recipe” Lyric MoonShadow

Original Art: Terms of Use: Lyric MoonShadow Use of any part of this newsletter signifies your agreement Photos: with the following terms of use. Copyrights on materials All photos contributed by members have contributed to this newsletter by the publisher, editors, been credited individually. All other readers and/or members are held by their individual photos used in this issue have been creators. Permission to reproduce individual articles for non sourced ”copyright free.” -commercial use is granted to anyone with the provision that the content remains unedited and appears with full author credits. Permission to reproduce this document en toto is granted to anyone with the provision that the content remains unedited and appears with full author credits: © 2009 George Knowles, http://www.controverscial.com No commercial use of this document, in part or all, is permitted without written permission from its author.